Wide angle compact

ABSTRACT

A cosmetic container that includes one or more lid assemblies and a base assembly, the base assembly configured to hold a cosmetic product. The lid assemblies and the base assembly are pivotably coupled with one or more hinge assemblies. Each hinge assembly may be positioned and secured within recesses of the lid assembly and the base assembly such that the cosmetic container can lie flat on a level surface in an open configuration. Each hinge assembly may provide two pivot locations to allow the lid assemblies to open to a plurality of configurations.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/530,087, filed on Jul. 7,2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present application relates generally to a cosmetic compact, and inparticular, to a compact including a wide angle lid.

BACKGROUND

Vessels exist that are portable, convenient to use, and designed tocontain cosmetic products for use. These types of portable vesselsusually consist of a jar and lid assembly, that when assembled togetherprovide an effective barrier for containing the product. The jar and/orlid are typically made of a glass, a plastic, a metal, combinations ofthe foregoing, or the like, that when closed together create a seal thatcan contain the product. These jar and lid assemblies may typically besealed by a thread fastening mechanism, a snap fastening mechanism, or aclamp fastening mechanism. Some assemblies, when fastened together, cancompress an o-ring or a gasket interposed by the jar and the lid. Someassemblies include hinged compacts rather than separate jars and lids.

These vessels are used in the cosmetics and personal care industries forcontaining a product to be applied to a body. Exemplary products includecreams, gels, loose or compressed powders, and various makeup products,such as lip balm, blush/rouge, tint, petroleum products, sunscreen, etc.Portable vessels have been developed to contain products in a compactand often substantially airtight assembly. These are often built with aplastic pot and a loose plastic lid that are housed by a protectiveshell. However, because these vessels have a loose lid, it is difficultto manage both the loose lid and the protective shell while applying thecontained product to a body. Some vessels have addressed this problem byutilizing a hinge or a tether to keep the lid with the pot. Such is thecase with traditional compacts. Although portable vessels and compactsexist, there remains a need for improved cosmetic containers.

SUMMARY

This disclosure provides design, material, manufacturing methods, anduse alternatives for cosmetic packaging.

A first illustrative, non-limiting example takes the form of a cosmeticcontainer comprising a base assembly including a base housing having abottom surface and one or more walls defining a cavity for holding aproduct, a first recess disposed along an edge of the base housing, anda second recess disposed along an edge of the base housing; a first lidassembly including a first lid housing having a top surface and a bottomsurface, the first lid housing further including a third recess disposedalong an edge of the first lid housing; a second lid assembly includinga second lid housing having a top surface and a bottom surface, thesecond lid housing further including a fourth recess disposed along anedge of the second lid housing; a first hinge assembly disposed at leastin part in the first recess and the third recess, the first hingeassembly coupled to the first lid assembly and the base assemblyadjacent to the first recess and the third recess and configured toallow the first lid assembly to pivot relative to the base assembly tomove the cosmetic container between a closed configuration and aplurality of open configurations; a second hinge assembly disposed atleast in part in the second recess and the fourth recess, the secondhinge assembly coupled to the second lid assembly and the base assemblyadjacent to the second recess and the fourth recess and configured toallow the second lid assembly to pivot relative to the base assembly tomove the cosmetic container between a closed configuration and aplurality of open configurations.

Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may comprise ahinge, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins. Additionally oralternatively, the first lid assembly may be rotatable about the firstpair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first lid assembly mayhave a range of motion about the first pair of pins in the range ofabout 0° to about 90°. Additionally or alternatively, the first hingeassembly may be rotatable about the second pair of pins. Additionally oralternatively, the first hinge assembly may have a range of motion aboutthe second pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.

Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may comprise ahinge, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins. Additionally oralternatively, the second lid assembly may be rotatable about the firstpair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second lid assembly mayhave a range of motion about the first pair of pins in the range ofabout 0° to about 90°. Additionally or alternatively, the second hingeassembly may be rotatable about the second pair of pins. Additionally oralternatively, the second hinge assembly may have a range of motionabout the second pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.

Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may comprise agenerally u-shaped hinge defining a channel and having a pair ofparallel legs and an interconnecting leg, a first pair of pins, and asecond pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first lidassembly may be rotatable about the first pair of pins. Additionally oralternatively, the first lid assembly may have a range of motion aboutthe first pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may be rotatableabout the second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the firsthinge assembly has a range of motion about the second pair of pins inthe range of about 0° to about 180°. Additionally or alternatively, thechannel of the first hinge may be configured to receive a portion of thefirst lid assembly in at least one open configuration.

Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may comprise agenerally u-shaped hinge defining a channel and having a pair ofparallel legs and an interconnecting leg, a first pair of pins, and asecond pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second lidassembly may be rotatable about the first pair of pins. Additionally oralternatively, the second lid assembly may have a range of motion aboutthe first pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may berotatable about the second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively,the second hinge assembly may have a range of motion about the secondpair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.

Additionally or alternatively, the channel of the first hinge may beconfigured to receive a portion of the first lid assembly in at leastone open configuration.

Additionally or alternatively, the cosmetic container may furthercomprise a magnetic closure mechanism disposed in the first and secondlid assemblies and the base assembly.

The above summary of some example embodiments is not intended todescribe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of thepresent disclosure. The Figures, and Detailed Description, which follow,more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention are bestunderstood from the following detailed description when read inconnection with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose ofillustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings embodimentsthat are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that theinvention is not limited to the specific instrumentalities disclosed.Included in the drawings are the following Figures:

FIG. 1 is a perspective front view of an illustrative cosmetic containerwith a wide angle lid in a closed configuration;

FIG. 2 is a perspective back view of the illustrative cosmetic containerwith a wide angle lid of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is an exploded front top perspective view of the illustrativecosmetic container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3B is an exploded back top perspective view of the illustrativecosmetic container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3C is an exploded front bottom perspective view of the illustrativecosmetic container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3D is an exploded side bottom perspective view of the illustrativecosmetic container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container in an openconfiguration;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container in anotheropen configuration;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container in anotheropen configuration;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the illustrative cosmetic container inanother open configuration;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the illustrative cosmetic container inanother open configuration;

FIG. 9 is a perspective top view of another illustrative cosmeticcontainer with a wide angle lid in a closed configuration;

FIG. 10 is a perspective bottom view of the illustrative cosmeticcontainer with a wide angle lid of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11A is an exploded front top perspective view of the illustrativecosmetic container of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11B is an exploded back top perspective view of the illustrativecosmetic container of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11C is an exploded front bottom perspective view of theillustrative cosmetic container of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11D is an exploded back bottom perspective view of the illustrativecosmetic container of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12A is a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container in anopen configuration;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the illustrative container of FIG.12A;

FIG. 13A is a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container inanother open configuration;

FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the illustrative container of FIG.13A;

FIG. 14A is a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container inanother open configuration;

FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the illustrative container of FIG.14A;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the illustrative cosmetic containerin another open configuration;

FIG. 16A is a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container inanother open configuration; and

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the illustrative container of FIG.16A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a cosmetic container 10 includingone or more wide-angle hinges in a closed configuration according toembodiments disclosed herein. As shown at FIG. 1, the cosmetic container10 may include a base assembly 12 and a first lid assembly 14 and asecond lid assembly 16. While the cosmetic container 10 is illustratedas having first and second lid assemblies 14, 16, it is contemplatedthat the cosmetic container 10 may include fewer than two lid assemblies(e.g., a single lid) or more than two lid assemblies, as desired.Further, the first and second lid assemblies 14, 16 may have differentsizes to cover different proportions of the base assembly 12, as shown.For example, the first lid assembly 14 may be larger than the second lidassembly 16. The reverse configuration in which the second lid assembly16 is larger than the first lid assembly 14 is also contemplated. Itshould be noted that the use of the terms “first” and “second” are notintended to limit the cosmetic container 10 to any specificconfiguration. In other cases, the first and second lid assemblies 14,16 may be similar in size or substantially the same size, as desired.

The first lid assembly 14 may be pivotably coupled to the base assembly12 via a first hinge assembly 18 such that the cosmetic container in anopened configuration can lie flat on surface. The first hinge assembly18 may be further configured to allow the first lid assembly 14 torotate underneath the base assembly 12 in another opened configuration.As shown in more detail with respect to FIG. 2, which illustrates a backperspective view of the cosmetic container 10, the second lid assembly16 may be pivotably coupled to the base assembly 12 via a second hingeassembly 20 such that the cosmetic container in an opened configurationcan lie flat on surface. The second hinge assembly 20 may be furtherconfigured to allow the second lid assembly 16 to rotate underneath thebase assembly 12 in another opened configuration.

As will be described in more detail below, the first and/or second lidassemblies 14, 16 may be releasably secured to the base assembly 12through a magnetic coupling between a portion of the respective lidassembly 14, 16 and the base assembly 12, although other couplingmechanisms are also contemplated. For example, a snap fit may be used asby having an upward extending lip or ring on the base assembly 12 thatengages a corresponding edge or ring on one or both of the first andsecond lid assemblies 14, 16. The cosmetic container 10 in FIGS. 1-2 isshown in a closed position with first and second lid assemblies 14, 16covering base assembly 12. The terms “base” and “lid” are not intendingto limit the cosmetic container 10 to a particular orientation. In somecases, the base assembly 12 and the lid assemblies 14, 16 may be thesame or similar in size, shape, and/or configuration, although this isnot required. For example, the base assembly 12 may be a jar, a compactbase, an airtight compact base, etc. The base assembly 12 and/or the lidassemblies 14, 16 may be structured such that a gap or recess 13 ispositioned about a circumference of the base assembly 12 and between thelid assemblies 14, 16 and the base assembly 12 to allow a user to liftone or both lid assemblies 14, 16 with a finger. However, other means ofopening one or both lid assemblies 14, 16 may be provided.

In some embodiments, the cosmetic container 10 and/or the variouscomponents thereof may be made from a rigid material (e.g.,acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, thermoplastics, other polymers, glass,metal, alloy, wood, and the like). Other embodiments may, however,include containers 10 made from a flexible or semi-rigid material, suchas plastic. In some embodiments, the base and/or lid assemblies 12, 14,16 may comprise a transparent or translucent material so that thecosmetic product within may be externally viewed.

FIG. 3A is an exploded front top view, FIG. 3B is an exploded back topview, and FIG. 3C is an exploded front bottom view of the cosmeticcontainer 10 of FIGS. 1 and 2. The base assembly 12 may include one ormore pots or compartments 22 a, 22 b, 22 c, 22 d (collectively 22) atleast partially encased by a base or housing 24. The base 24 may includea first, or bottom, surface 26 and one or more side walls 28 extendinggenerally perpendicular to the bottom surface 26. The one or morecompartments 22 may be positioned within a cavity 30 formed at least inpart by the bottom surface 26 and the one or more side walls 28. The oneor more compartments 22 may be configured to receive a cosmetic product,such as, but not limited to loose powders (e.g., for eye, cheek, face,and the like), pressed powders (e.g., for eye, cheek, face, and thelike), creams (e.g., skincare, eye, foundation, and the like),sunscreen, hot pour products (e.g., lipsticks, glosses, and the like),touchup, spot cover, baked powders, moisturizers, hair creams, gels,serums, and the like. While the base assembly 12 is illustrated asincluding four compartments 22, the base assembly 12 may include anynumber of compartments 22 desired, such as, but not limited to, one,two, three, four, or more. It is contemplated that the compartments 22may be removable and/or interchangeable, as desired.

The first lid assembly 14 may include a housing 15 having an inner orbottom surface 54, an outer or top surface 56, and one or more sidewalls 42. The second lid assembly 16 may include a housing 17 having aninner or bottom surface 88, an outer or top surface 90, and one or moreside walls 50. Referring to FIG. 3C, the first lid assembly 14 mayinclude a mirror 92 positioned on or adjacent to the bottom surface 54thereof. Similarly, the second lid assembly 16 may include a mirror 94positioned on or adjacent to the bottom surface 88 thereof. However, itis contemplated that the first lid assembly 14 and/or the second lidassembly 16 may include one or more compartments configured to receive acosmetic product in place of one or both of the mirrors 92, 94. Thecompartments may be configured to receive a cosmetic product, such as,but not limited to loose powders (e.g., for eye, cheek, face, and thelike), pressed powders (e.g., for eye, cheek, face, and the like),creams (e.g., skincare, eye, foundation, and the like), sunscreen, hotpour products (e.g., lipsticks, glosses, and the like), touchup, spotcover, baked powders, moisturizers, hair creams, gels, serums, and thelike. If so provided with compartments, the lid assemblies 14, 16(individually or together) may include any number of compartmentsdesired, such as, but not limited to, one, two, three, four, or more. Itis contemplated that the compartments may be removable and/orinterchangeable, as desired.

The base assembly 12 may include a first recess 32 configured to receivea portion of the first hinge assembly 18 and a second recess 34configured to receive a portion of the second hinge assembly 20. Therecesses 32, 34 may extend from a top edge or surface 36 to the bottomsurface 26 of the base 24. This may allow the first and/or second hingeassemblies to rotate or pivot beyond 90° as will be described in moredetail below. The first recess 32 may be generally defined by two sidewalls 64, 66 extending generally parallel to one another and a back wall68 connecting the two side walls 64, 66. Similarly, the second recess 34may be generally defined by two side walls 70, 72 extending generallyparallel to one another and a back wall 74 connecting the two side walls64, 66. The back walls 68, 74 may separate the recesses 32, 34 from thecavity 30 of the base 24.

In some cases, the recesses 32, 34 may be positioned diametricallyopposite from one another. This may allow a free edge of the first lidassembly 14 and a free edge of the second lid assembly 16 to bepositioned next to one another in a closed configuration and pivot awayfrom one another in an open configuration. However, the recesses 32, 34(and hence hinge assemblies 18, 20) may be positioned in any orientationdesired.

The first lid assembly 14 may include a recess 38 configured to receiveanother portion of the first hinge assembly 18. The recess 38 may begenerally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 38. The recessmay include two side walls 76, 78 extending generally parallel to oneanother, a back wall 80 connecting the two side walls 64, 66, and a topwall 52. The top wall 52 may hide the hinge assembly 18 from view, whenthe container 10 is viewed from the top. In other words, the top surface56 of the first lid assembly 14 may be generally planar. However, thisis not required. In some cases, the recess 38 may extend from the bottomsurface 54 of the lid assembly 14 to a top surface 56 of the first lidassembly 14. As will be described in more detail below, the recesses 32,38 may generally align to form a combined recess for receiving the firsthinge assembly 18.

The second lid assembly 16 may include a recess 40 configured to receiveanother portion of the second hinge assembly 20. The recess 40 may begenerally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 40. The recess 40may include two side walls 82, 84 extending generally parallel to oneanother, a back wall 86 connecting the two side walls 82, 84, and a topwall 58. The top wall 58 may hide the hinge assembly 20 from view, whenthe container 10 is viewed from the top. In other words, the top surface90 of the second lid assembly 16 may be generally planar. However, thisis not required. In some cases, the recess 40 may extend from the bottomsurface 88 of the lid assembly 16 to a top surface 90 of the second lidassembly 16. As will be described in more detail below, the recesses 34,40 may generally align to form a combined recess for receiving thesecond hinge assembly 20.

The first hinge assembly 18 may be positioned within the combinedrecesses 32, 38 such that an outer side wall 42 of the first hingeassembly 18 is generally aligned with an outer edge surface 44 of thebase assembly 12 and an outer edge surface 46 of the first lid assembly14 when the container 10 is in a closed configuration, as shown inFIG. 1. The second hinge assembly 20 may be positioned within thecombined recesses 34, 40 such that an outer facing surface 48 of thesecond hinge assembly 20 is generally aligned with an outer edge surface44 of the base assembly 12 and an outer side wall 50 of the second lidassembly 16 when the container 10 is in a closed configuration, as shownin FIG. 2.

The first hinge assembly 18 may include a hinge 19 having a first end 21and a second end 23. The hinge 19 may have a length extending betweenthe first end 21 and the second end 23 that is about the same as, orslightly less than a length of the recesses 32, 38 in the base and lidassemblies 12, 14. The hinge assembly 18 may include a first pin 25 aextending from the first end 21 and a second pin 25 b extending from thesecond end 23 to form a first pair of pins 25 a, 25 b (collectively,25). In some cases, the hinge assembly 18 may be considered a watch linkstyle hinge. The first pair of pins 25 may be configured to be receivedwithin a first pair of apertures 29 a, 29 b (collectively, 29) formed inthe housing 15 of the first lid assembly 14. The apertures 29 may beformed in the walls 76, 78 on either side of the recess 38. In someinstances, the apertures may extend through the walls 76, 78 such thatthe apertures 29 are accessible from a location outside of the recess38. In other cases, the apertures 29 may terminate at a locationintermediate the recess 38 and the outer surface of the housing 15. Insome cases, the first pair of pins 25 may be movably attached, such as,but not limited to, spring-loaded to the hinge 19 to allow the pins 25to be depressed and placed within the apertures 29 in the first lidassembly 14. In other words, the pins 25 may be movable along alongitudinal axis of the hinge 19 to allow an overall length (e.g. froma tip of the first pin 25 a to a tip of the second pin 25 b) to beshortened for assembly. For example, a first pin 25 a may be insertedinto the first aperture 29 a. Once the first pin 25 a has been insertedinto the first aperture 29 a, the tip of the second pin 25 b may extendbeyond an opening of the aperture 29 b in the recess 38. The second pin25 b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 19 (e.g. a force exertedon the tip of the second pin 25 b) to shorten an exposed length of thepin 25 b and allow it to be inserted into the second aperture 29 b. Whenthe exerted force is released from the pin 25 b, the pin 25 b may returnto its original length (shown in FIGS. 3A-C) to engage the aperture 29b. A biasing element (not shown) such as, but not limited to, a spring,may be disposed within the hinge 19 to bias the pins 25 away from theends 21, 23 of the hinge 19.

The hinge assembly 18 may include a third pin 27 a extending from thefirst end 21 and a fourth pin 27 b extending from the second end 23 toform a second pair of pins 27 a, 27 b (collectively, 27). The secondpair of pins 27 may be configured to be received within a pair ofapertures 31 a, 31 b (collectively, 31) formed in the base 24 of thebase assembly 12. The apertures 31 may be formed through a side wall oneither side of the recess 32. In some instances, the apertures mayextend through the walls 64, 66 such that the apertures 31 areaccessible from a location outside of the recess 32. In other cases, theapertures 31 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 32 andthe outer surface of the housing 24. In some cases, the second pair ofpins 27 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to,spring-loaded) to the hinge 19 to allow the pins 27 to be depressed andplaced within the apertures 31 in the base assembly 12. In other words,to the pins 27 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 19to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin 27 a to atip of the fourth pin 27 b) to be shortened for assembly. For example,the third pin 27 a may be inserted into an aperture 31 a of the base.Once the third pin 27 a has been inserted into the aperture 31 a, thetip of the fourth pin 27 b may extend beyond the aperture 31 b openingin the recess 32. The fourth pin 27 b may be pushed into a recess in thehinge 19 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the fourth pin 27 b) toshorten an exposed length of the pin 27 b and allow it to be insertedinto the aperture 31 b. When the exerted force is released from the pin27 b, the pin 27 b may return to its original length (shown in FIGS.3A-C). A biasing element (not shown) such as, but not limited to aspring, may be disposed within the hinge 19 to bias the pins 27 awayfrom the ends 21, 23 of the hinge 19.

The pins 25, 27 may be secured to the hinge 19 to allow for movementalong a longitudinal axis of the hinge 19 but to prevent rotationalmovement of the pins 25, 27 relative to the hinge 19. The pins 25, 27may be positioned within the apertures 29, 31 such that the base and lidassemblies 12, 14 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins 25, 27.This may allow the base and lid assemblies 12, 14 to pivot open aboutthe hinge assembly 18. In some embodiments, the hinge assembly 18 maypivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 12, 14. In some cases,the hinge assembly 18 may be removable through actuation of one or moreof the pins 25, 27 through the corresponding apertures 29, 31.

The second hinge assembly 20 may include a hinge 33 having a first end35 and a second end 37. The hinge 33 may have a length extending betweenthe first end 35 and the second end 37 that is about the same as, orslightly less than a length of the recesses 34, 40 in the base and lidassemblies 12, 16. The hinge assembly 20 may include a first pin 39 aextending from the first end 35 and a second pin 39 b extending from thesecond end 37 to form a first pair of pins 39 a, 39 b (collectively,39). In some cases, the hinge assembly 20 may be considered a watch linkstyle hinge. The first pair of pins 39 may be configured to be receivedwithin a first pair of apertures 43 a, 43 b (collectively, 43) formed inthe housing 17 of the second lid assembly 16. The apertures 43 may beformed in the walls 82, 84 on either side of the recess 40. In someinstances, the apertures may extend through the walls 82, 84 such thatthe apertures 43 are accessible from a location outside of the recess40. In other cases, the apertures 43 may terminate at a locationintermediate the recess 40 and the outer surface of the housing 17. Insome cases, the first pair of pins 39 may be movably attached, such as,but not limited to, spring-loaded to the hinge 33 to allow the pins 39to be depressed and placed within the apertures 43 in the second lidassembly 16. In other words, the pins 39 may be movable along alongitudinal axis of the hinge 33 to allow an overall length (e.g. froma tip of the first pin 39 a to a tip of the second pin 39 b) to beshortened for assembly. For example, a first pin 39 a may be insertedinto the first aperture 43 a. Once the first pin 39 a has been insertedinto the first aperture 43 a, the tip of the second pin 39 b may extendbeyond an opening of the aperture 43 b in the recess 40. The second pin39 b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 33 (e.g. a force exertedon the tip of the second pin 39 b) to shorten an exposed length of thepin 39 b and allow it to be inserted into the second aperture 43 b. Whenthe exerted force is released from the pin 39 b, the pin 39 b may returnto its original length (shown in FIGS. 3A-C) to engage the aperture 43b. A biasing element (not shown) such as, but not limited to, a spring,may be disposed within the hinge 33 to bias the pins 39 away from theends 35, 37 of the hinge 33.

The hinge assembly 20 may include a third pin 41 a extending from thefirst end 35 and a fourth pin 41 b extending from the second end 37 toform a second pair of pins 41 a, 41 b (collectively, 41). The secondpair of pins 41 may be configured to be received within a pair ofapertures 45 a, 45 b (collectively, 45) formed in the base 24 of thebase assembly 12. The apertures 45 may be formed through a side wall oneither side of the recess 34. In some instances, the apertures mayextend through the walls 70, 72 such that the apertures 45 areaccessible from a location outside of the recess 34. In other cases, theapertures 45 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 34 andthe outer surface of the housing 24. In some cases, the second pair ofpins 41 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to,spring-loaded) to the hinge 33 to allow the pins 41 to be depressed andplaced within the apertures 45 in the base assembly 12. In other words,to the pins 41 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 33to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin 41 a to atip of the fourth pin 41 b) to be shortened for assembly. For example,the third pin 41 a may be inserted into an aperture 45 a of the base.Once the third pin 41 a has been inserted into the aperture 45 a, thetip of the fourth pin 41 b may extend beyond the aperture 45 b openingin the recess 34. The fourth pin 41 b may be pushed into a recess in thehinge 33 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the fourth pin 41 b) toshorten an exposed length of the pin 41 b and allow it to be insertedinto the aperture 45 b. When the exerted force is released from the pin41 b, the pin 41 b may return to its original length (shown in FIGS.3A-C). A biasing element (not shown) such as, but not limited to aspring, may be disposed within the hinge 33 to bias the pins 41 awayfrom the ends 35, 37 of the hinge 33.

The pins 39, 41 may be secured to the hinge 33 to allow for movementalong a longitudinal axis of the hinge 33 but to prevent rotationalmovement of the pins 39, 41 relative to the hinge 33. The pins 39, 41may be positioned within the apertures 43, 45 such that the base and lidassemblies 12, 16 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins 39, 41.This may allow the base and lid assemblies 12, 16 to pivot open aboutthe hinge assembly 20. In some embodiments, the hinge assembly 20 maypivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 12, 16. In some cases,the hinge assembly 20 may be removable through actuation of one or moreof the pins 39, 41 through the corresponding apertures 43, 45.

FIGS. 4-6 are side views of the illustrative cosmetic container 10 withthe first lid assembly 14 and the second lid assembly 16 in various openconfigurations. FIGS. 7-8 are perspective views of the illustrativecosmetic container 10 with the first lid assembly 14 and the second lidassembly 16 in various open configurations. The cosmetic container 10may be moved between the closed configuration (FIGS. 1-2) and aplurality of open configurations (FIGS. 4-8) by pivoting the baseassembly 12 and/or the lid assembly 14 relative to one another via oneor both of the hinge assemblies 18, 20. The hinge assemblies 18, 20 mayallow the lid assemblies 14, 16 to be individually articulated to pivotopen into a wide range of open configuration. In some cases, the firstlid assembly 14 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 90°about the first pair of pins 25 of the first hinge assembly 18, asindicated at 01. The use of the angles are relative to the orientationof the lid assemblies 14, 16 and/or hinge assemblies 18, 20 in theclosed configuration (FIGS. 1-2). The first lid assembly 14 may bepositioned at any location between and including a fully closed (e.g.,0°) and a fully open (e.g., 90° or more) configuration. It iscontemplated that the range of motion of the first lid assembly 14 maybe limited by the top wall 52 of the recess 38. For example, furtherrotation of the first lid assembly 14 about the first pair of pins 25may be limited by the top wall 52 contacting the hinge 19. In somecases, the first lid assembly 14 may be capable of pivoting beyond 90°.For example, in the absence of the top wall 52 (e.g., a configurationsimilar to the recess 32 in the base assembly 12), rotation of the firstlid assembly 14 may rotate to angles of upwards of 180°. In some cases,the second lid assembly 16 may be capable of pivoting in a range ofabout 0° to 90° about the first pair of pins 39 of the second hingeassembly 20, in a similar manner to the first lid assembly 14. Thesecond lid assembly 16 may be positioned at any location between andincluding a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 90° or more)configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motion of the secondlid assembly 16 may be limited by the top wall 58 of the recess 40. Forexample, further rotation of the second lid assembly 16 about the firstpair of pins 39 may be limited by the top wall 58 contacting the hinge33. In some cases, the second lid assembly 16 may be capable of pivotingbeyond 90°. For example, in the absence of the top wall 58 (e.g., aconfiguration similar to the recess 34 in the base assembly 12),rotation of the second lid assembly 16 may rotate to angles of upwardsof 180°.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the illustrative cosmetic container 10with the first lid assembly 14 in an open configuration. In theconfiguration shown, the first lid assembly 14 has been rotated relativeto the first hinge assembly 18. It should be noted that the hingeassembly 18 provides for two pivot points. In addition to the first lidassembly 14 rotating about the first pair of pins 25, the hinge assemblyand the first lid assembly 14 can be rotated about the second pair ofpins 27. FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the illustrative cosmeticcontainer 10 with the first lid assembly 14 in another openconfiguration. In the illustrated configuration, the first lid assembly14 has been pivoted about the first pair of pins 25 by about 90° and thehinge assembly 18 and the first lid assembly 14 have together beenpivoted about the second pair of pins 27 by about 90°. This may allowthe cosmetic container 10 to lie flat on a surface during use. The firsthinge assembly 18 and the first lid assembly 14 may be rotated furtherto about 180°, as shown in FIG. 6.

In the illustrated configuration of FIG. 5, the second lid assembly 16is shown in a closed configuration. However, this is not required. Itshould be understood that the second lid assembly 16 and the secondhinge assembly 20 are capable of pivoting in similar manner to the firstlid assembly 14 and the first hinge assembly 18. It should further beunderstood that the second lid assembly (and/or second hinge assembly20) may be articulated concurrently with the first lid assembly 14(and/or first hinge assembly 18) or separately from the first lidassembly 14 (and/or first hinge assembly 18). In other words, both thefirst lid assembly 14 and the second lid assembly 16 may be openedindividually while the other remains closed or opened together (e.g.,partially opened or fully opened, as desired).

In some cases, the first lid assembly 14 and the first hinge assembly 18may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about thesecond pair of pins 27 of the first hinge assembly 18, as indicated atθ₂. The first hinge assembly 18 may be positioned at any locationbetween and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g.,180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motionof the first lid assembly 14 and the first hinge assembly 18 may belimited by the back wall 68 of the recess 32. For example, furtherrotation of the first hinge assembly 18 about the second pair of pins 27may be limited by the hinge 19 contacting the back wall 68. In somecases, the first hinge assembly 18 may be capable of pivoting beyond180° (or less than 0°). For example, the back wall 68 may be angled ortapered to allow the first hinge assembly 18 to rotate to angles ofupwards of 180°. In some cases, the second lid assembly 16 and thesecond hinge assembly 20 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about0° to 180° about the second pair of pins 41 of the second hinge assembly20. The second hinge assembly 20 may be positioned at any locationbetween and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g.,180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motionof the second lid assembly 16 and the second hinge assembly 20 may belimited by the back wall 74 of the recess 34. For example, furtherrotation of the second hinge assembly 20 about the second pair of pins41 may be limited by the hinge 33 contacting the back wall 74. In somecases, the second hinge assembly 20 may be capable of pivoting beyond180° (or less than 0°). For example, the back wall 74 may be angled ortapered to allow the second hinge assembly 20 to rotate to angles ofupwards of 180°.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the cosmetic container 10 in anotherillustrative open configuration. In the illustrated configuration, thefirst lid assembly 14 is rotated about the first pair of the pins 25 ofthe first hinge assembly 18 to the fully open configuration. Similarlythe first hinge assembly 18 is rotated about the second pair of pins 27to the fully open configuration. The second lid assembly 16 may berotated to a fully or nearly fully open configuration about the firstpair of pins 39 of the second hinge assembly 20. The second hingeassembly 20 may be rotated about the second pair of pins 41 to an angleof about 90°. In such a configuration the first lid assembly 14 may beused as a stand for the cosmetic container 10. For example, the bottomsurface 54 and/or the mirror 92 may be placed on a surface (such as, butnot limited to, a counter). This may allow the user to access theproduct in the base assembly 12 while using the mirror 94 in the secondlid assembly 16 without holding the container 10. The reverseconfiguration in which the second lid assembly functions as a stand forthe cosmetic container is also contemplated.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the cosmetic container 10 in anotherillustrative open configuration with the mirrors 92, 94 removed. In theillustrated configuration, the first lid assembly 14 is rotated aboutthe first pair of the pins 25 of the first hinge assembly 18 to thefully open configuration. The first hinge assembly 18 is rotated aboutthe second pair of pins 27 to about 90°. The second lid assembly 16 isrotated about the first pair of the pins 39 of the second hinge assembly20 to the fully open configuration. The second hinge assembly 20 isrotated about the second pair of pins 41 to about 90°. In thisconfiguration, the bottom surface 26 of the base assembly 12 and the topsurfaces 56, 90 of the first and second lid assemblies 14, 16 maygenerally align such that the container 10 is substantially flat orlevel. In other words, when in the illustrated configuration, thecosmetic container 10 may be placed on a surface (e.g. a counter) andthe bottom surface 26 and the top surfaces 56, 90 will contact thesurface and lie in the same plane.

In some cases, the base assembly 12 and the lid assemblies 14, 16 may bereleasably coupled together using a magnetic closure. For example, thebase assembly 12 may include one or more magnets disposed on, embeddedin, attached to, or otherwise a part of the base 24. In some instances,the magnet(s) may be disposed within a side wall 28 of the base 24. Thebase assembly 12 may be include one or more magnets 102 a, 102 b(collectively, 102) configured to magnetically couple with one or moremagnets 100 a, 100 b (collectively, 100) in the first lid assembly 14.Alternatively, or additionally, the base assembly 12 may be include oneor more magnets 106 a, 106 b (collectively, 106) configured tomagnetically couple with one or more magnets 104 a, 104 b (collectively,104) in the second lid assembly 16. The lid assemblies 14, 16 may eachinclude one or more magnets 100 a, 100 b, 104 a, 104 b disposed on,embedded in, attached to, or otherwise a part of the housings 15, 17thereof. The magnets 100, 104 may be positioned to generally align withthe magnet(s) 102, 106 in the base assembly 12. The position of themagnets 100, 102, 104, 106 is merely illustrative. For example, themagnets 100, 102, 104, 106 may be positioned closer to the hingeassemblies 18, 20 if so desired. In some cases, the cosmetic container10 may include other latching mechanism such as but not limited to,push-buttons, a ball clasp, snap clasps, etc.

The base assembly 12 may have a generally circular cross-sectionalshape. The lid assemblies 14, 16 may each have a generally half-circularcross-sectional shape such that together the lid assemblies 14, 16 havea generally circular cross-sectional shape. It should be understood thatone “half” circle may be larger than the other. However, the baseassembly 12 and the lid assemblies 14 may take any shape desired,including but not limited to, square, rectangular, triangular,half-ovoid, polygonal, etc.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of another illustrative cosmeticcontainer 200 including one or more wide angle hinges in a closedconfiguration according to embodiments disclosed herein. As shown atFIG. 9, the cosmetic container 200 may include a base assembly 202 and afirst lid assembly 204 and a second lid assembly 206. While the cosmeticcontainer 200 is illustrated as having first and second lid assemblies204, 206, it is contemplated that the cosmetic container 200 may includefewer than two lid assemblies (e.g., a single lid) or more than two lidassemblies, as desired. Further, the first and second lid assemblies204, 206 may have different sizes to cover different proportions of thebase assembly 202, as shown. For example, the first lid assembly 204 maybe larger than the second lid assembly 206. The reverse configuration inwhich the second lid assembly 206 is larger than the first lid assembly204 is also contemplated. It should be noted that the use of the terms“first” and “second” are not intended to limit the cosmetic container200 to any specific configuration. In other cases, the first and secondlid assemblies 204, 206 may be similar in size or substantially the samesize, as desired.

The first lid assembly 204 may be pivotably coupled to the base assembly202 via a first hinge assembly 208 such that the cosmetic container inan opened configuration can lie flat on surface. The first hingeassembly 208 may be further configured to allow the first lid assembly204 to rotate underneath the base assembly 202 in another openedconfiguration. As shown in more detail with respect to FIG. 10, whichillustrates a bottom perspective view of the cosmetic container 200, thesecond lid assembly 206 may be pivotably coupled to the base assembly202 via a second hinge assembly 210 such that the cosmetic container inan opened configuration can lie flat on surface. The second hingeassembly 210 may be further configured to allow the second lid assembly206 to rotate underneath the base assembly 202 in another openedconfiguration.

As will be described in more detail below, the first and/or second lidassemblies 204, 206 may be releasably secured to the base assembly 202through a magnetic coupling between a portion of the respective lidassembly 204, 206 and the base assembly 202, although other couplingmechanisms are also contemplated. For example, a snap fit may be used asby having an upward extending lip or ring on the base assembly 202 thatengages a corresponding edge or ring on one or both of the first andsecond lid assemblies 204, 206. The cosmetic container 200 in FIGS. 9-10is shown in a closed position with first and second lid assemblies 204,206 covering base assembly 202. The terms “base” and “lid” are notintending to limit the cosmetic container 200 to a particularorientation. In some cases, the base assembly 202 and the lid assemblies204, 206 may be the same or similar in size, shape, and/orconfiguration, although this is not required. In some embodiments, thebase assembly 202 may include a compact base, an airtight compact base,a jar, etc. The base assembly and/or the lid assemblies 204, 206 may bestructured such that a gap or recess 212 is positioned about acircumference of the base assembly 202 and between the lid assemblies204, 206 and the base assembly 202 to allow a user to lift one or bothlid assemblies 204, 206 with a finger. However, other means of openingone or both lid assemblies 204, 206 may be provided.

In some embodiments, the cosmetic container 200 and/or the variouscomponents thereof may be made from a rigid material (e.g.,acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, thermoplastics, other polymers, glass,metal, alloy, wood, and the like). Other embodiments may, however,include containers 200 made from a flexible or semi-rigid material, suchas plastic. In some embodiments, the base and/or lid assemblies 202,204, 206 may comprise a transparent or translucent material so that thecosmetic product within may be externally viewed.

FIG. 11A is an exploded front top view, FIG. 11B is an exploded back topview, FIG. 11C is an exploded front bottom view, and FIG. 11D is anexploded back bottom view of the cosmetic container 200 of FIGS. 9 and10. The base assembly 202 may include one or more pots or compartments214 a, 214 b, 214 c, 214 d (collectively 214) at least partially encasedby a base or housing 216. The base 216 may include a first, or bottom,surface 218 and one or more side walls 220 extending generallyperpendicular to the bottom surface 218. The one or more compartments214 may be positioned within a cavity 222 formed at least in part by thebottom surface 218 and the one or more side walls 220. The one or morecompartments 214 may be configured to receive a cosmetic product, suchas, but not limited to loose powders (e.g., for eye, cheek, face, andthe like), pressed powders (e.g., for eye, cheek, face, and the like),creams (e.g., skincare, eye, foundation, and the like), sunscreen, hotpour products (e.g., lipsticks, glosses, and the like), touchup, spotcover, baked powders, moisturizers, hair creams, gels, serums, and thelike. While the base assembly 202 is illustrated as including fourcompartments 214, the base assembly 202 may include any number ofcompartments 214 desired, such as, but not limited to, one, two, three,four, or more. It is contemplated that the compartments 214 may beremovable and/or interchangeable, as desired.

The first lid assembly 204 may include a housing 224 having an inner orbottom surface 226, an outer or top surface 228, and one or more sidewalls 230. The second lid assembly 206 may include a housing 232 havingan inner or bottom surface 234, an outer or top surface 236, and one ormore side walls 238. Referring to FIGS. 11C and 11D, the first lidassembly 204 may include a mirror 240 positioned on or adjacent to thebottom surface 226 thereof. Similarly, the second lid assembly 206 mayinclude a mirror 242 positioned on or adjacent to the bottom surface 234thereof. However, it is contemplated that the first lid assembly 204and/or the second lid assembly 206 may include one or more compartmentsconfigured to receive a cosmetic product in place of one or both of themirrors 240, 242. The compartments may be configured to receive acosmetic product, such as, but not limited to loose powders (e.g., foreye, cheek, face, and the like), pressed powders (e.g., for eye, cheek,face, and the like), creams (e.g., skincare, eye, foundation, and thelike), sunscreen, hot pour products (e.g., lipsticks, glosses, and thelike), touchup, spot cover, baked powders, moisturizers, hair creams,gels, serums, and the like. If so provided with compartments, the lidassemblies 204, 206 (individually or together) may include any number ofcompartments desired, such as, but not limited to, one, two, three,four, or more. It is contemplated that the compartments may be removableand/or interchangeable, as desired.

The base assembly 202 may include a first recess 244 configured toreceive a portion of the first hinge assembly 208 and a second recess246 configured to receive a portion of the second hinge assembly 210.The recesses 244, 246 may extend from a top edge or surface 248 to thebottom surface 218 of the base 216. This may allow the first and/orsecond hinge assemblies 208, 210 to rotate or pivot beyond 90° as willbe described in more detail below. The first recess 244 may be generallydefined by two side walls 250, 252 extending generally parallel to oneanother and a back wall 254 connecting the two side walls 250, 252.Similarly, the second recess 246 may be generally defined by two sidewalls 256, 258 extending generally parallel to one another and a backwall 260 connecting the two side walls 250, 252. The back walls 254, 260may separate the recesses 244, 246 from the cavity 222 of the base 216.

In some cases, the recesses 244, 246 may be positioned diametricallyopposite from one another. This may allow a free edge of the first lidassembly 204 and a free edge of the second lid assembly 206 to bepositioned next to one another in a closed configuration and pivot awayfrom one another in an open configuration. However, the recesses 244,246 (and hence hinge assemblies 208, 210) may be positioned in anyorientation desired.

The first lid assembly 204 may include a recess 262 configured toreceive another portion of the first hinge assembly 208. The recess 262may be generally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 262. Therecess may include two side walls 264, 266 extending generally parallelto one another, a back wall 268 connecting the two side walls 250, 252,and a top wall 270. The top wall 270 may hide the hinge assembly 208from view, when the container 200 is viewed from the top. In otherwords, the top surface 228 of the first lid assembly 204 may begenerally planar. However, this is not required. In some cases, therecess 262 may extend from the bottom surface 226 of the lid assembly204 to a top surface 228 of the first lid assembly 204. As will bedescribed in more detail below, the recesses 244, 262 may generallyalign to form a combined recess for receiving the first hinge assembly208.

The second lid assembly 206 may include a recess 272 configured toreceive another portion of the second hinge assembly 210. The recess 272may be generally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 272. Therecess 272 may include two side walls 274, 276 extending generallyparallel to one another, a back wall 278 connecting the two side walls274, 276, and a top wall 280. The top wall 280 may hide the hingeassembly 210 from view, when the container 200 is viewed from the top.In other words, the top surface 236 of the second lid assembly 206 maybe generally planar. However, this is not required. In some cases, therecess 272 may extend from the bottom surface 234 of the lid assembly206 to a top surface 236 of the second lid assembly 206. As will bedescribed in more detail below, the recesses 246, 272 may generallyalign to form a combined recess for receiving the second hinge assembly210.

The first hinge assembly 208 may be positioned within the combinedrecesses 244, 262 such that the first hinge assembly 208 is generallypositioned within with an outer edge surface of the base assembly 202and an outer edge surface of the first lid assembly 204 when thecontainer 200 is in a closed configuration, as shown in FIG. 9. Thesecond hinge assembly 210 may be positioned within the combined recesses246, 272 such that the second hinge assembly 210 is generally positionedwithin with an outer edge surface of the base assembly 202 and an outerside wall of the second lid assembly 206 when the container 200 is in aclosed configuration, as shown in FIG. 10.

The first hinge assembly 208 may include a hinge 282 having a generallyu-shaped configuration and defining a channel 284 therein. The generallyu-shaped hinge 282 may have a pair of generally parallel legs 281, 283interconnected by a third leg 285. The hinge 282 may a length extendingbetween a first end 287 and a second end 289 that is about the same as,or slightly less than a length of the recesses 244, 262 in the base andlid assemblies 202, 204. The hinge assembly 208 may include a first pin286 a extending from the first end 287 and a second pin 286 b extendingfrom the second end 289 to form a first pair of pins 286 a, 286 b(collectively, 286). In some cases, the hinge assembly 208 may beconsidered a watch link style hinge. The first pair of pins 286 may beconfigured to be received within a first pair of apertures 271 a, 271 b(collectively, 271) formed in the housing 224 of the first lid assembly204. The apertures 271 may be formed in the walls 264, 266 on eitherside of the recess 262. In some instances, the apertures may extendthrough the walls 264, 266 such that the apertures 271 are accessiblefrom a location outside of the recess 262. In other cases, the apertures271 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 262 and theouter surface of the housing 224. In some cases, the first pair of pins286 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loadedto the hinge 282 to allow the pins 286 to be depressed and placed withinthe apertures 271 in the first lid assembly 204. In other words, thepins 286 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 282 toallow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the first pin 286 a to a tipof the second pin 286 b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, afirst pin 286 a may be inserted into the first aperture 271 a. Once thefirst pin 286 a has been inserted into the first aperture 271 a, the tipof the second pin 286 b may extend beyond an opening of the aperture 271b in the recess 262. The second pin 286 b may be pushed into a recess inthe hinge 282 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the second pin 286 b)to shorten an exposed length of the pin 286 b and allow it to beinserted into the second aperture 271 b. When the exerted force isreleased from the pin 286 b, the pin 286 b may return to its originallength (shown in FIGS. 11A-D) to engage the aperture 271 b. A biasingelement (not shown) such as, but not limited to, a spring, may bedisposed within the hinge 282 to bias the pins 286 away from the ends287, 289 of the hinge 282.

The hinge assembly 208 may include a third pin 288 a extending from thefirst end 287 and a fourth pin 288 b extending from the second end 289to form a second pair of pins 288 a, 288 b (collectively, 288). Thesecond pair of pins 288 may be configured to be received within a pairof apertures 273 a, 273 b (collectively, 273) formed in the base 216 ofthe base assembly 202. The apertures 273 may be formed through a sidewall on either side of the recess 244. In some instances, the aperturesmay extend through the walls 250, 252 such that the apertures 273 areaccessible from a location outside of the recess 244. In other cases,the apertures 273 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess244 and the outer surface of the housing 216. In some cases, the secondpair of pins 288 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to,spring-loaded) to the hinge 282 to allow the pins 288 to be depressedand placed within the apertures 273 in the base assembly 202. In otherwords, to the pins 288 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of thehinge 282 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin288 a to a tip of the fourth pin 288 b) to be shortened for assembly.For example, the third pin 288 a may be inserted into an aperture 273 aof the base. Once the third pin 288 a has been inserted into theaperture 273 a, the tip of the fourth pin 288 b may extend beyond theaperture 273 b opening in the recess 244. The fourth pin 288 b may bepushed into a recess in the hinge 282 (e.g. a force exerted on the tipof the fourth pin 288 b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 288 band allow it to be inserted into the aperture 273 b. When the exertedforce is released from the pin 288 b, the pin 288 b may return to itsoriginal length (shown in FIGS. 11A-D). A biasing element (not shown)such as, but not limited to a spring, may be disposed within the hinge282 to bias the pins 288 away from the ends 287, 289 of the hinge 282.

The pins 286, 288 may be secured to the hinge 282 to allow for movementalong a longitudinal axis of the hinge 282 but to prevent rotationalmovement of the pins 286, 288 relative to the hinge 282. The pins 286,288 may be positioned within the apertures 271, 273 such that the baseand lid assemblies 202, 204 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins286, 288. This may allow the base and lid assemblies 202, 204 to pivotopen about the hinge assembly 208. In some embodiments, the hingeassembly 208 may pivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 202,204. In some cases, the hinge assembly 208 may be removable throughactuation of one or more of the pins 286, 288 through the correspondingapertures 271, 273. In some embodiments a free end of the legs 281, 283may have an increased thickness, as shown, sized and shaped toaccommodate the pins 286, 288. However, this is not required. In someinstances, the legs 281, 283 may have a uniform thickness along a lengththereof. It is further contemplated that the free ends of the legs 281,283 may have rounded edges to reduce and/or eliminate catch pointsduring articulation of the lid assembly 204 and/or base assembly 202.

The second hinge assembly 210 may include a hinge 292 having a generallyu-shaped configuration and defining a channel 294 therein. The generallyu-shaped hinge 292 may have a pair of generally parallel legs 291, 293interconnected by a third leg 295. The hinge 292 may a length extendingbetween a first end 297 and a second end 299 that is about the same as,or slightly less than a length of the recesses 246, 272 in the base andlid assemblies 202, 206. The hinge assembly 210 may include a first pin296 a extending from the first end 297 and a second pin 296 b extendingfrom the second end 299 to form a first pair of pins 296 a, 296 b(collectively, 296). In some cases, the hinge assembly 210 may beconsidered a watch link style hinge. The first pair of pins 296 may beconfigured to be received within a first pair of apertures 275 a, 275 b(collectively, 275) formed in the housing 232 of the second lid assembly206. The apertures 275 may be formed in the walls 274, 276 on eitherside of the recess 272. In some instances, the apertures may extendthrough the walls 274, 276 such that the apertures 275 are accessiblefrom a location outside of the recess 272. In other cases, the apertures275 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 272 and theouter surface of the housing 232. In some cases, the first pair of pins296 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loadedto the hinge 292 to allow the pins 296 to be depressed and placed withinthe apertures 275 in the second lid assembly 206. In other words, thepins 296 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 292 toallow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the first pin 296 a to a tipof the second pin 296 b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, afirst pin 296 a may be inserted into the first aperture 275 a. Once thefirst pin 296 a has been inserted into the first aperture 275 a, the tipof the second pin 296 b may extend beyond an opening of the aperture 275b in the recess 272. The second pin 296 b may be pushed into a recess inthe hinge 292 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the second pin 296 b)to shorten an exposed length of the pin 296 b and allow it to beinserted into the second aperture 275 b. When the exerted force isreleased from the pin 296 b, the pin 296 b may return to its originallength (shown in FIGS. 11A-C) to engage the aperture 275 b. A biasingelement (not shown) such as, but not limited to, a spring, may bedisposed within the hinge 292 to bias the pins 296 away from the ends297, 299 of the hinge 292.

The hinge assembly 210 may include a third pin 298 a extending from thefirst end 297 and a fourth pin 298 b extending from the second end 299to form a second pair of pins 298 a, 298 b (collectively, 298). Thesecond pair of pins 298 may be configured to be received within a pairof apertures 277 a, 277 b (collectively, 277) formed in the base 216 ofthe base assembly 202. The apertures 277 may be formed through a sidewall on either side of the recess 246. In some instances, the aperturesmay extend through the walls 256, 258 such that the apertures 277 areaccessible from a location outside of the recess 246. In other cases,the apertures 277 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess246 and the outer surface of the housing 216. In some cases, the secondpair of pins 298 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to,spring-loaded) to the hinge 292 to allow the pins 298 to be depressedand placed within the apertures 277 in the base assembly 202. In otherwords, to the pins 298 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of thehinge 292 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin298 a to a tip of the fourth pin 298 b) to be shortened for assembly.For example, the third pin 298 a may be inserted into an aperture 277 aof the base. Once the third pin 298 a has been inserted into theaperture 277 a, the tip of the fourth pin 298 b may extend beyond theaperture 277 b opening in the recess 246. The fourth pin 298 b may bepushed into a recess in the hinge 292 (e.g. a force exerted on the tipof the fourth pin 298 b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 298 band allow it to be inserted into the aperture 277 b. When the exertedforce is released from the pin 298 b, the pin 298 b may return to itsoriginal length (shown in FIGS. 11A-D). A biasing element (not shown)such as, but not limited to a spring, may be disposed within the hinge292 to bias the pins 298 away from the ends 297, 299 of the hinge 292.

The pins 296, 298 may be secured to the hinge 292 to allow for movementalong a longitudinal axis of the hinge 292 but to prevent rotationalmovement of the pins 296, 298 relative to the hinge 292. The pins 296,298 may be positioned within the apertures 275, 277 such that the baseand lid assemblies 202, 206 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins296, 298. This may allow the base and lid assemblies 202, 206 to pivotopen about the hinge assembly 210. In some embodiments, the hingeassembly 210 may pivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 202,206. In some cases, the hinge assembly 210 may be removable throughactuation of one or more of the pins 296, 298 through the correspondingapertures 275, 277. In some embodiments a free end of the legs 291, 293may have an increased thickness, as shown, sized and shaped toaccommodate the pins 296, 298. However, this is not required. In someinstances, the legs 291, 293 may have a uniform thickness along a lengththereof. It is further contemplated that the free ends of the legs 291,293 may have rounded edges to reduce and/or eliminate catch pointsduring articulation of the second lid assembly 206 and/or base assembly202.

FIGS. 12-16 are side and cross-sectional views of the illustrativecosmetic container 200 with the first lid assembly 204 and the secondlid assembly 206 in various open configurations. The cosmetic container200 may be moved between the closed configuration (FIGS. 9-10) and aplurality of open configurations (FIGS. 12-16) by pivoting the baseassembly 202 and/or the lid assembly 204 relative to one another via oneor both of the hinge assemblies 208, 210. The hinge assemblies 208, 210may allow the lid assemblies 204, 206 to be individually articulated topivot open into a wide range of open configuration. In some cases, thefirst lid assembly 204 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0°to 180° about the first pair of pins 286 of the first hinge assembly208, as indicated at α₂ in FIGS. 13A and 13B. The use of the angles arerelative to the orientation of the lid assemblies 204, 206 and/or hingeassemblies 208, 210 in the closed configuration (FIGS. 9-10). The firstlid assembly 204 may be positioned at any location between and includinga fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 180° or more)configuration.

FIG. 12A is a side view of the illustrative container 200 with the firstlid assembly 204 in an open configuration. FIG. 12B is a cross-sectionalview of the illustrative container 200 taken through a center point ofthe hinges 208, 210 of FIG. 12A. In FIGS. 12A and 12B the first lidassembly 204 has been rotated about the first pair of pins 286 by about90°, as shown at α₁. It should be noted that the hinge assembly 208provides for two pivot points. In addition to the first lid assembly 204rotating about the first pair of pins 286, the hinge assembly and thefirst lid assembly 204 can be rotated about the second pair of pins 288.The top wall 270 of the recess 262 may slide along an outer surface ofthe free edge of the first leg 281 of the hinge 282. It is contemplatedthat the range of motion of the first lid assembly 204 may be limited bythe top wall 270 of the recess 262.

FIG. 13A is a side view of the illustrative container 200 with the firstlid assembly 204 in another open configuration. FIG. 13B is across-sectional view of the illustrative container 200 taken through acenter point of the hinges 208, 210 of FIG. 13A. As described above, thefirst lid assembly 204 may be rotated by about 180°, as shown in FIGS.13A and 13B, or until the top wall 270 of the recess 262 contacts aninner surface of the first leg 281 of the hinge 282. As the first lidassembly 204 is rotated, the top wall 270 of the recess 262 may slideinto or be generally disposed within the channel 284 of the hinge 282.This arrangement may allow the lid assembly 204 to open to a wide rangeof angles while maintaining a smooth and aesthetically pleasing topsurface 228.

In some cases, the first lid assembly 204 may be capable of pivotingbeyond 180°. For example, in the absence of the top wall 270 (e.g., aconfiguration similar to the recess 244 in the base assembly 202),rotation of the first lid assembly 204 may rotate to angles of upwardsof 180°. In some cases, the second lid assembly 206 may be capable ofpivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about the first pair of pins 296of the second hinge assembly 210, in a similar manner to the first lidassembly 204. The second lid assembly 206 may be positioned at anylocation between and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fullyopen (e.g., 180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that therange of motion of the second lid assembly 206 may be limited by the topwall 280 of the recess 272. For example, further rotation of the secondlid assembly 206 about the first pair of pins 296 may be limited by thetop wall 280 contacting an inner surface of the first leg 291 of thehinge 292. In some cases, the second lid assembly 206 may be capable ofpivoting beyond 180°. For example, in the absence of the top wall 280(e.g., a configuration similar to the recess 246 in the base assembly202), rotation of the second lid assembly 206 may rotate to angles ofupwards of 180°.

FIG. 14A is a side view of the illustrative container 200 with the firstlid assembly 204 in another open configuration. FIG. 14B is across-sectional view of the illustrative container 200 taken through acenter point of the hinges 208, 210 of FIG. 14A. It should be noted thatthe hinge assembly 208 provides for two pivot points. In addition to thefirst lid assembly 204 rotating about the first pair of pins 286, thehinge assembly 208 and the first lid assembly 204 can be rotated aboutthe second pair of pins 288. In the configuration shown, the first lidassembly 204 has been rotated relative to the first hinge assembly 208by about 90°, as shown at α₁. Additionally the hinge assembly 208 andthe first lid assembly 204 have been rotated together about the secondpair of pins 288 by about 90°, as shown at α₃. This may allow thecosmetic container 200 to lie flat on a surface during use. As notedabove, the second lid assembly 206 may be articulated in a similarmanner to the first lid assembly 204 such that the second lid assembly206 may additionally or alternatively lie flat on a surface during use.

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the illustrative cosmeticcontainer 200 with the first lid assembly 204 in another openconfiguration. In the illustrated configuration, the first lid assembly204 has been pivoted about the first pair of pins 286 by about 180° andthe hinge assembly 208 and the first lid assembly 204 have together beenpivoted about the second pair of pins 288 by about 90°. The first hingeassembly 208 and the first lid assembly 204 may be rotated further toabout 180°, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B.

In the illustrated configurations of FIGS. 12-15, the second lidassembly 206 is shown in a closed configuration. However, this is notrequired. It should be understood that the second lid assembly 206 andthe second hinge assembly 210 are capable of pivoting in similar mannerto the first lid assembly 204 and the first hinge assembly 208. Itshould further be understood that the second lid assembly (and/or secondhinge assembly 210) may be articulated concurrently with the first lidassembly 204 (and/or first hinge assembly 208) or separately from thefirst lid assembly 204 (and/or first hinge assembly 208). In otherwords, both the first lid assembly 204 and the second lid assembly 206may be opened individually while the other remains closed or openedtogether (e.g., partially opened or fully opened, as desired).

FIG. 16A is a side view of the illustrative container 200 with the firstlid assembly 204 and the second lid assembly 206 in another openconfiguration. FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the illustrativecontainer 200 taken through a center point of the hinges 208, 21016B-16B of FIG. 16A. In the illustrated configuration, the first lidassembly 204 has been pivoted about the first pair of pins 286 by about180° and the hinge assembly 208 and the first lid assembly 204 havetogether been pivoted about the second pair of pins 288 by about 180°.Similarly, the second lid assembly 206 has been pivoted about the firstpair of pins 296 by about 180° and the hinge assembly 210 and the secondlid assembly 206 have together been pivoted about the second pair ofpins 298 by about 180°. Such rotation of the first and/or second lidassemblies 204, 206 may position the lid assemblies 204, 206 underneathof the base assembly 202 such that the top surfaces 270, 280 of the lidassemblies 204, 206 contact or are positioned adjacent to the bottomsurface 218 of the base assembly 202.

In some cases, the first lid assembly 204 and the first hinge assembly208 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about thesecond pair of pins 288 of the first hinge assembly 208, as indicated at02. The first hinge assembly 208 may be positioned at any locationbetween and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g.,180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motionof the first lid assembly 204 and the first hinge assembly 208 may belimited by the interconnecting leg 285 of the hinge 282. For example,further rotation of the first hinge assembly 208 about the second pairof pins 288 may be limited by the interconnecting leg 285 of the hinge282 contacting the base assembly 202. In some cases, the first hingeassembly 208 may be capable of pivoting beyond 180° (or less than 0°).In some cases, the second lid assembly 206 and the second hinge assembly210 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about thesecond pair of pins 298 of the second hinge assembly 210. The secondhinge assembly 210 may be positioned at any location between andincluding a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 180° ormore) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motion of thesecond lid assembly 206 and the second hinge assembly 210 may be limitedby the interconnecting leg 295 of the hinge 292 contacting the baseassembly 202. In some cases, the second hinge assembly 210 may becapable of pivoting beyond 180° (or less than 0°).

While not explicitly shown, in some cases, the base assembly 202 and thelid assemblies 204, 206 may be releasably coupled together using amagnetic closure. For example, the base assembly 202 may include one ormore magnets disposed on, embedded in, attached to, or otherwise a partof the base 216. In some instances, the magnet(s) may be disposed withina side wall 220 of the base 216. The base assembly 202 may be includeone or more magnets configured to magnetically couple with one or moremagnets in the first lid assembly 204. Alternatively, or additionally,the base assembly 202 may be include one or more magnets configured tomagnetically couple with one or more magnets in the second lid assembly206. The lid assemblies 204, 206 may each include one or more magnetsdisposed on, embedded in, attached to, or otherwise a part of thehousings 224, 232 thereof. The magnets may be positioned to generallyalign with the magnet(s) in the base assembly 202. In some cases, thecosmetic container 200 may include other latching mechanism such as butnot limited to, push-buttons, a ball clasp, snap clasps, etc.

The base assembly 202 may have a generally circular cross-sectionalshape. The lid assemblies 204, 206 may each have a generallyhalf-circular cross-sectional shape such that together the lidassemblies 204, 206 have a generally circular cross-sectional shape. Itshould be understood that one “half” circle may be larger than theother. However, the base assembly 202 and the lid assemblies 204 maytake any shape desired, including but not limited to, square,rectangular, triangular, half-ovoid, polygonal, etc.

Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplaryembodiments, it is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that numerous changes and modifications may be made to thepreferred embodiments of the invention and that such changes andmodifications may be made without departing from the true spirit of theinvention. It is therefore intended that the appended claims beconstrued to cover all such equivalent variations as fall within thetrue spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cosmetic container comprising: a base assemblyincluding a base housing having a bottom surface and one or more wallsdefining a cavity for holding a product, a first recess disposed alongan edge of the base housing, and a second recess disposed along an edgeof the base housing; a first lid assembly including a first lid housinghaving a top surface and a bottom surface, the first lid housing furtherincluding a third recess disposed along an edge of the first lidhousing; a second lid assembly including a second lid housing having atop surface and a bottom surface, the second lid housing furtherincluding a fourth recess disposed along an edge of the second lidhousing; a first hinge assembly disposed at least in part in the firstrecess and the third recess, the first hinge assembly coupled to thefirst lid assembly and the base assembly adjacent to the first recessand the third recess and configured to allow the first lid assembly topivot relative to the base assembly to move the cosmetic containerbetween a closed configuration and a plurality of open configurations; asecond hinge assembly disposed at least in part in the second recess andthe fourth recess, the second hinge assembly coupled to the second lidassembly and the base assembly adjacent to the second recess and thefourth recess and configured to allow the second lid assembly to pivotrelative to the base assembly to move the cosmetic container between aclosed configuration and a plurality of open configurations.
 2. Thecosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the first hinge assemblycomprises a hinge, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins. 3.The cosmetic container of claim 2, wherein the first lid assembly isrotatable about the first pair of pins.
 4. The cosmetic container ofclaim 3, wherein the first lid assembly has a range of motion about thefirst pair of pins in a range of about 0° to about 90°.
 5. The cosmeticcontainer of claim 2, wherein the first hinge assembly is rotatableabout the second pair of pins.
 6. The cosmetic container of claim 5,wherein the first hinge assembly has a range of motion about the secondpair of pins in a range of about 0° to about 180°.
 7. The cosmeticcontainer of claim 1, wherein the first hinge assembly comprises agenerally u-shaped hinge defining a channel and having a pair ofparallel legs and an interconnecting leg, a first pair of pins, and asecond pair of pins.
 8. The cosmetic container of claim 7, wherein thefirst lid assembly is rotatable about the first pair of pins.
 9. Thecosmetic container of claim 8, wherein the first lid assembly has arange of motion about the first pair of pins in a range of about 0° toabout 180°.
 10. The cosmetic container of claim 7, wherein the firsthinge assembly is rotatable about the second pair of pins.
 11. Thecosmetic container of claim 10, wherein the first hinge assembly has arange of motion about the second pair of pins in a range of about 0° toabout 180°.
 12. The cosmetic container of claim 7, wherein the channelof the generally u-shaped hinge is configured to receive a portion ofthe first lid assembly in at least one open configuration.
 13. Thecosmetic container of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic closuremechanism disposed in each of the first and second lid assemblies andthe base assembly.
 14. A cosmetic container comprising: a base assemblyincluding a base housing having a bottom surface and one or more wallsdefining a cavity for holding a product, a first recess disposed alongan edge of the base housing, and a second recess disposed along an edgeof the base housing; a first lid assembly including a first lid housinghaving a top surface and a bottom surface, the first lid housing furtherincluding a third recess disposed along an edge of the first lidhousing; a second lid assembly including a second lid housing having atop surface and a bottom surface, the second lid housing furtherincluding a fourth recess disposed along an edge of the second lidhousing; a first hinge assembly including a hinge, a first pair of pins,and a second pair of pins, the first hinge assembly disposed at least inpart in the first recess and the third recess, the first hinge assemblycoupled to the first lid assembly and the base assembly adjacent to thefirst recess and the third recess and configured to allow the first lidassembly to pivot relative to the base assembly to move the cosmeticcontainer between a closed configuration and a plurality of openconfigurations; a second hinge assembly including a hinge, a first pairof pins, and a second pair of pins, the second hinge assembly disposedat least in part in the second recess and the fourth recess, the secondhinge assembly coupled to the second lid assembly and the base assemblyadjacent to the second recess and the fourth recess and configured toallow the second lid assembly to pivot relative to the base assembly tomove the cosmetic container between a closed configuration and aplurality of open configurations.
 15. The cosmetic container of claim14, wherein the first lid assembly has a range of motion about the firstpair of pins of the first hinge assembly in a range of about 0° to about90° and the second lid assembly has a range of motion about the firstpair of pins of the second hinge assembly in a range of about 0° toabout
 90. 16. The cosmetic container of claim 14, wherein the firsthinge assembly has a range of motion about the second pair of pins ofthe first hinge assembly in a range of about 0° to about 180° and thesecond hinge assembly has a range of motion about the second pair ofpins of the second hinge assembly in a range of about 0° to about 180°.17. A cosmetic container comprising: a base assembly including a basehousing having a bottom surface and one or more walls defining a cavityfor holding a product, a first recess disposed along an edge of the basehousing, and a second recess disposed along an edge of the base housing;a first lid assembly including a first lid housing having a top surfaceand a bottom surface, the first lid housing further including a thirdrecess disposed along an edge of the first lid housing; a second lidassembly including a second lid housing having a top surface and abottom surface, the second lid housing further including a fourth recessdisposed along an edge of the second lid housing; a first hinge assemblyincluding a generally u-shaped hinge defining a channel and having apair of parallel legs and an interconnecting leg, a first pair of pins,and a second pair of pins, the first hinge assembly disposed at least inpart in the first recess and the third recess, the first hinge assemblycoupled to the first lid assembly and the base assembly adjacent to thefirst recess and the third recess and configured to allow the first lidassembly to pivot relative to the base assembly to move the cosmeticcontainer between a closed configuration and a plurality of openconfigurations; a second hinge assembly including a generally u-shapedhinge defining a channel and having a pair of parallel legs and aninterconnecting leg, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins,the second hinge assembly disposed at least in part in the second recessand the fourth recess, the second hinge assembly coupled to the secondlid assembly and the base assembly adjacent to the second recess and thefourth recess and configured to allow the second lid assembly to pivotrelative to the base assembly to move the cosmetic container between aclosed configuration and a plurality of open configurations.
 18. Thecosmetic container of claim 17, wherein the first lid assembly has arange of motion about the first pair of pins of the first hinge assemblyin a range of about 0° to about 180° and wherein the second lid assemblyhas a range of motion about the first pair of pins of the second hingeassembly in a range of about 0° to about 180°.
 19. The cosmeticcontainer of claim 17, wherein the first hinge assembly has a range ofmotion about the second pair of pins of the first hinge assembly in arange of about 0° to about 180° and wherein the second hinge assemblyhas a range of motion about the second pair of pins of the second hingeassembly in a range of about 0° to about 180°.
 20. The cosmeticcontainer of claim 17, wherein the channel of the generally u-shapedhinge of the first hinge assembly is configured to receive a portion ofthe first lid assembly in at least one open configuration and thechannel of the generally u-shaped hinge of the second hinge assembly isconfigured to receive a portion of the second lid assembly in at leastone open configuration.